Your dog's excitement at the time of the outing is a natural and understandable reaction, as walks are often our four-legged friends' favorite part of the day. Conversely, it can become the dog owner's dreaded moment! This excitement can in fact sometimes become a problem if it leads to unwanted behaviors, such as jumping, barking, or pulling on the leash. So how to manage?
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Establishing a routine
Setting up a routine for outings can help your dog understand what is expected of him and calm down more quickly. Start by choosing regular times for walks and try to stick to them as much as possible. Before going outside, ask your dog to sit and wait calmly while you put on his leash and accessories. Reward him with congratulations or treats when he behaves calmly and patiently.
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Divert attention
When your dog is overly excited, you can try to divert his attention to something more positive. For example, ask him to sit up and give you his paw, then reward him with a treat or a caress. This technique allows you to channel your dog's excitement into productive activity and to reward him for his good behavior.
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Use calming toys and activities
Some dogs may benefit from using calming toys or activities to help calm them down before going outside. For example, you can give your dog a chew toy or a food puzzle to keep him busy and allow him to relax before a walk. Be sure to choose toys that are appropriate for your dog's size and personality and that you always supervise their use.
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Positive reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is essential to encourage desired behaviors in your dog. When your dog behaves calmly before a trip, praise him and give him a treat to reinforce that behavior. Avoid yelling or punishing your dog if he is excited, as this can reinforce unwanted behavior and make the situation even more stressful for both of you.
